How Old Was George Washington When He Was A General

So, I was wandering around Mount Vernon the other day, you know, George Washington's old stomping grounds, and I found myself standing in front of this massive portrait of him. I mean, the guy looks like he's seen a thing or two, right? Those piercing eyes, that serious expression. It got me thinking, just how old was this guy when he was running the show as a general?

Now, I know what you're thinking, "Dude, you're supposed to be the history buff here. You should know this stuff!" Well, fair enough, but bear with me, I'm getting there.

Born in the 1700s, but not the kind you're thinking of

First things first, George Washington wasn't born in the 1800s, as some people seem to think. No, no, he was born way back in 1732. That's right, he was around before the American Revolution, before the United States even existed. Can you imagine being born in a time when your country didn't even exist yet?

Now, let's fast forward to the American Revolution. The war started in 1775, and guess who was appointed the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army? That's right, our man George. But how old was he at the time?

Old enough to know better, but young enough to fight

Alright, so here's where it gets interesting. When Washington took charge of the army, he was 43 years old. Can you believe that? I mean, I'm pushing 40, and I can barely handle my kids' soccer practice, let alone an entire army. But hey, that's George for you.

Fun Facts About George Washington

Now, you might be thinking, "That's not that old. I've seen generals in their 60s and 70s." Well, yeah, that's true, but remember, back then, life expectancy was a lot lower. So, for his time, Washington was actually quite old to be starting a military career. But hey, he wasn't one to shy away from a challenge, was he?

And speaking of challenges, did you know that Washington didn't have any formal military training? I know, right? The guy who led the Continental Army to victory against the British Empire didn't even go to military school. Talk about a self-starter!

From general to president, all in a day's work

Now, you might be wondering, "What happened after the war?" Well, after the British surrendered in 1781, Washington didn't just kick back and relax. No, he went on to become the first President of the United States. And guess how old he was when he took office? That's right, he was still in his 50s!

Six Genuinely Surprising Facts About George Washington - InsideHook

I mean, can you imagine being president in your 50s these days? I'm pretty sure I'd be too busy trying to figure out how to use the newfangled computer in the Oval Office to actually run the country. But hey, that's just me.

So, how old was he when he died?

Alright, so you're probably wondering, "How did he die?" Well, here's where it gets a bit sad. Washington died in 1799, at the age of 67. And no, it wasn't in battle. He caught a cold, which turned into a severe throat infection, and that was that. I know, right? The guy who survived countless battles and skirmishes, taken down by a simple cold.

But hey, that's life. Or rather, that was life in the 18th century. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to get my flu shot. I mean, if George Washington can't beat a cold, what chance do I have?